A few days later—
The long-awaited day finally arrived.
The gathering between the common people and nobles was held in an open courtyard, centered around a massive ancient tree whose leaves were a rich golden yellow, drifting slowly downwards whenever the wind blew softly. Beneath its spreading branches, a long polished table had been set up, accompanied by exactly twelve chairs. Twelve voices whose decisions would determine the future course of the entire kingdom of Wonderveil.
Elowen and Celestia sat side by side at the head of the table. Directly before them sat Silas Whitlock—the white rabbit, now dressed smartly in fine blue garments, his posture calm and composed as always. Not far away sat Nyx; a large, plump blue cat with sharp, intelligent eyes that watched everyone and everything with an unreadable expression. Coiled lazily along one side of the table was Liy—a long segmented creature of pale green hue, its gaze steady and unblinking, never shifting focus for even a single moment. At the very far end sat the giant twin brothers, Axe and Aver, their massive frames positioned in perfect mirror-like symmetry, appearing almost identical in every way possible.
Elowen slowly scanned every single person and creature gathered around the table before speaking, her voice calm yet commanding enough to reach everyone clearly.
"I know exactly why you have all come here today... you all wish to know who will rightfully inherit the throne of Wonderveil."
The breeze drifted gently through the air, causing several golden leaves to flutter downwards and land softly upon the wooden surface of the table.
Nyx was the very first to break the silence, his voice deep and heavy, resonating clearly throughout the open space.
"Your Highness... truth be told, it matters very little to me who exactly sits upon the throne. Whoever proves capable and worthy shall have my respect."
He paused briefly, slowly licking his paw in a leisurely manner before continuing his speech.
"However, our kingdom needs a strong symbol of unity and authority now more than ever. The anniversary celebration of Wonderveil is fast approaching. We should hold grand ceremonies and celebrations—let the people witness strength, stability and glory... not confusion or emptiness."
Axe nodded firmly in agreement.
"He speaks the truth, Your Highness. If you wish to delay the formal coronation ceremony, we shall raise no objections or complaints against your decision."
Aver immediately picked up exactly where his brother had left off, speaking without even the slightest pause or hesitation.
"Besides... deep down, everyone here already knows exactly who is destined to rule us."
As he spoke those words, his eyes drifted naturally and deliberately toward Celestia.
Silas offered a faint, knowing smile.
"A gentle, kind-hearted princess is always much easier for the people to love and accept wholeheartedly," he remarked casually. His tone sounded lighthearted and innocent enough—but the underlying meaning and implication were sharp and heavy.
Celestia, who had remained quiet and observant until now, suddenly spoke up clearly and confidently.
"Being kind and gentle is simply not enough."
Instantly, every pair of eyes turned towards her in surprise and curiosity. She held her ground steadily and continued speaking firmly.
"A true ruler must be wise, responsible, and brave enough to make difficult decisions that are necessary even when they are unpopular or painful."
Silence fell heavily upon everyone present for a few moments. Nyx observed her closely and more carefully this time, his golden eyes narrowing slightly with interest.
"Interesting..." he murmured quietly.
"You clearly recognise and acknowledge your own weaknesses and shortcomings... it is rare indeed to find someone willing to admit such things openly."
Elowen remained completely silent throughout this exchange, simply watching carefully, observing every single reaction, analysing every expression and storing every detail deep within her memory.
Celestia took a deep breath to steady herself before continuing.
"I sincerely apologise that we have decided to postpone the formal coronation ceremony."
Several faces around the table shifted and changed expression—yet nobody voiced disagreement or opposition openly.
"However," she added more strongly and resolutely, raising her voice slightly so that all could hear clearly,
"The anniversary celebration of our kingdom will proceed exactly as planned and will definitely NOT be delayed."
Aver bowed his head slightly out of respect and acceptance.
"As you command, Your Highness."
Axe nodded his agreement in turn, whilst Nyx simply offered a thin, mysterious smile.
Silas however... remained absolutely silent. Far quieter and still than usual.
Elowen felt a small genuine smile tugging gently at the corner of her lips. The meeting had gone exceptionally well—far smoother and more peacefully than she had dared hope or expect.
Yet deep inside her heart and mind, she knew one undeniable truth very clearly: such calmness and peace never lasted forever, nor was it ever truly real or genuine.
Her gaze drifted slowly and deliberately toward one particular figure seated at the table. Someone who nodded politely in agreement with everything said. Someone who never argued or disagreed at any point. Yet... someone who accepted everything far too easily, far too readily.
And Elowen knew instinctively—this kind of behaviour... was actually much more dangerous and threatening than open conflict or opposition ever could be.
........
The palace of Wonderveil grew livelier day by day. Servants bustled about preparing the great hall—the place where nobles from across the land would gather to celebrate the kingdom's anniversary. Floors were polished until they shone brightly, heavy drapes were replaced with fresh ones, and golden ornaments were hung in every corner, glistening elegantly under the light of chandeliers.
Outside, the roads leading toward the palace were lined with Wonderveil's flags and strings of tiny glowing lanterns that stretched all the way into the town below, guiding travellers and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Knights patrolled every passageway and gate with extra vigilance and discipline; no mistakes or negligence would be tolerated. This celebration was far too important, and failure was simply not an option.
Amidst all the noise and activity, Celestia walked slowly through the quiet palace corridors, watching everyone carry out their duties efficiently. Her eyes wandered, and she even caught glimpses of her older sister Elowen, who was busy overseeing various arrangements. However, exhaustion was slowly creeping into her bones and mind. Without saying a word to anyone, Celestia quietly slipped away toward the royal gardens, seeking a moment of silence and calm away from the chaos.
The evening breeze brushed softly against her face and hair, bringing with it the scent of blooming flowers and fresh greenery. For a short while, she simply stood there, breathing slowly and deeply, enjoying the rare peacefulness surrounding her.
"Princess Celestia."
The familiar voice broke through her quiet moment, causing her to turn around quickly. Walking toward her with his usual gentle smile was a young man with thick dark green hair—Charles.
Celestia's eyes instantly lit up with genuine happiness.
"Charles! It has been such a long time since I last saw you. Have you been very busy lately?"
Charles nodded slightly, his expression soft but apologetic.
"I had a few important matters to attend to... please forgive me for not coming to visit or informing you sooner."
"There is absolutely nothing to forgive," Celestia replied kindly, smiling warmly at him. "You will attend the upcoming celebration, won't you?"
"Of course, Your Highness. I shall definitely be there and ready to perform as—"
"You won't need to entertain or perform for anyone on that day," Celestia interrupted gently but firmly.
Charles froze in surprise, blinking his eyes rapidly in confusion.
"Pardon... Your Highness?"
Celestia smiled sweetly at his bewildered reaction.
"Just sit beside me throughout the entire event. That is all I ask of you."
Charles fell silent immediately, a noticeable flush of red colour rising quickly onto his cheeks and ears.
"Your Highness... I-I am merely a jester and entertainer. Someone of my low status... I do not deserve such honour or privilege."
"I have never seen or treated you as just an entertainer, Charles," Celestia cut him off softly yet clearly. "To me... you are my closest and dearest friend."
Her words were spoken gently, but they carried immense sincerity and meaning—so much so that Charles felt a heavy ache deep within his chest, a mixture of happiness and pain he could not explain or understand. He offered her a small, somewhat sad smile.
"Yes... your friend indeed."
Shortly afterwards, Celestia reached out and took Charles by the hand, leading him along with her.
"Come with me," she said softly.
She led him towards a room that had remained untouched for quite some time—the private chambers of their late parents. Inside, their old belongings and royal garments were still carefully stored and kept neat, preserved exactly as they had left them years ago. Celestia walked straight toward the large wardrobe and opened its doors wide, revealing rows of fine clothing made from rich fabrics and decorated with intricate embroidery and jewels.
"Pick one of these to wear," she instructed, looking back at him encouragingly.
Charles stared hesitantly at the magnificent clothes—garments meant only for royalty and high-ranking nobles.
"But Your Highness... these belonged to your late father and mother..."
"It matters not," Celestia answered simply. "I would much rather see them being worn and appreciated, than simply gathering dust and being forgotten forever inside here."
Charles lowered his gaze respectfully, touched deeply by her kindness and generosity.
"Very well... as you wish, Your Highness."
He reached out and carefully selected a beautiful white robe—simple yet elegant, crafted from smooth high-quality material.
"Umm... Your Highness..." Charles began awkwardly. "I shall need to change into this."
Celestia giggled softly, stepping lightly toward the door.
"Oh yes, of course. I will wait for you just out here on the balcony."
She stepped outside, and the heavy velvet curtains fell closed, separating the balcony from the private room. Inside, Charles held the white robe tightly in his hands, his gaze drifting wistfully toward where Celestia stood just beyond the curtains.
"If only... I wasn't merely a jester," he whispered quietly into the silence, bitterness lacing his voice and expression.
"If only... I was someone worthy enough, someone equal in standing to you..."
But reality remained painfully clear and cruel. He was nothing more than a lowly entertainer, born to serve and amuse others. And deep inside his heart, he knew with absolute certainty—his feelings for her were impossible, forbidden and destined to go absolutely nowhere.
A few minutes passed, and Charles finally stepped out onto the balcony. He was now fully dressed in the white robe; the outfit suited him perfectly, making him look refined, noble and dignified—almost indistinguishable from a true gentleman of high birth.
"Your Highness... I am ready," he announced quietly.
Celestia turned around to face him properly, her eyes widening slightly in genuine admiration and surprise.
"You look wonderful, Charles. It truly suits you perfectly."
Charles immediately looked away shyly, unable to hold her bright gaze.
"Thank you... Your Highness."
"You can keep that robe afterwards," Celestia added casually.
Charles shook his head instantly, alarmed and humbled by her offer.
"I really cannot accept such precious things, Your Highness—it is far too great an honour for someone like me."
"Just keep it," Celestia insisted gently, smiling affectionately at him. "Think of it as a gift and a memory of this special day we shared together."
Charles fell silent, overwhelmed and unable to refuse her kindness any longer. He slowly bowed his head in acceptance and gratitude.
"...Thank you very much, Your Highness."
Together, they walked out of the room and back into the palace corridors, chatting happily as usual and laughing softly at small jokes and stories, just as they had always done. It felt natural, comfortable and warm—as though absolutely nothing stood between them at all.
However, unnoticed by either of them—far down the long corridor—another pair of eyes watched everything intently and quietly.
Elowen stood silently in the shadows at the far end of the hall, observing her younger sister walking happily beside the court jester. Her expression remained calm and unreadable, yet deep inside her mind, she began to realise... perhaps there was another hidden complication, another obstacle standing quietly in the shadows, waiting to change everything once again.